Bring the kids and enjoy loads of family fun during Shrimp Fest, October 13–16, 2011, in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are encouraged to bring the younger set to enjoy this hugely popular event in Gulf Shores, Alabama. There is an entire section of the grounds dedicated to making the children’s days at the festival just as fun as the adults’ experience.

A full slate of live stage acts by or for children is offered throughout the four-day festival. Babin House of Party will supply free all-day entertainment on Thursday and Friday, October 13 and 14 (10 a.m.–5 p.m.), plus shorter stage segments Saturday and Sunday (see schedule below).

Sunday10:30–11 a.m. Alabama Entertainers Music Theater Group
11–11:30 Babin House of Party
11:30–noon International Miss Youth Development
Noon–12:30 Brandy Brown Studio
12:30–1:00 Miss Seafood Queens
1:00–1:30 kbDanz
1:30–2:00 Babin House of Party
2:00–2:30 Alabama Entertainers Music Theater Group
2:30–3:00 Alligator Alley
3:00–3:30 Alabama Entertainers Music Theater Group
3:30–4:00 —
4:00–5:00 Babin House of Party Grand Finale

Although not directly a part of Children’s Activity Village, the Sand Sculpture Contest on Saturday (11 a.m.–3 p.m.) offers a creative opportunity for age groups starting as young as 5 years.

So pack up the entire family for fun, fun, fun at the 2011 Shrimp Festival!

While at the festival, you won’t want to miss the wide variety of musical acts at both ends of the festival grounds. Take a look at the full line-up, including links to many of the performers, on our Shrimp Fest—East Stage and Shrimp Fest—West Stage pages.

The Hangout hosts Tip Tops, a free show to dance the night away on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

If you’ve grooved to the beat of the Tip Tops, you understand why they are among the most popular dance bands in the Southeast. For those who have not had the pleasure, your time is now!

The Hangout, home of great music and great fun, is hosting a locals appreciation/Shrimp Festival kick-off/Chamber After Hours event on Thursday, September 15, with the Tip Tops performing free from 6 until 10 p.m., and everyone is invited.

The Tip Tops will take you back to the heyday of Motown, complete with “The Topettes” performing music of The Supremes, The Pointer Sisters and more. And “The Dancing Horns” fast-stepping brass ensemble adds such tremendous energy to each song that you will find it impossible to sit still at any time during the evening—even if dancing is not your thing.

The best live party music covering the ’50s to the ’80s requires outstanding talent, great harmonies, costume changes and upbeat choreography. You’ll find all of this in the amazing package presented by the Tip Tops. It will be a fabulous evening, so bring some friends and meet more friends Thursday at The Hangout.

Once you’ve experienced the thrill of their show, you’ll want to watch our Concerts and Music page for the Tip Tops’ next local appearance and encourage your not-so-local friends to join you there. You can even let them know of the wonderful beach vacation Hot Deals that can be found for select properties, such as beautiful Perdido Key condos or Gulf Shores houses.

Friday night, February 11, 2011, brings an evening of music and socialization to Orange Beach. The Adult Activity Center on Canal Rd. will become a dance hall between 6 and 9 p.m., with the help of Chi-Lou (formerly Vintage Vagabonds Band).

Join in an evening of social dancing Friday, February 11, 2011 at Orange Beach Adult Activity Center.

If you attended the dances here last year, yes it’s the same band. They decided a change of name gave them a little more flexibility, but they will play the same great music that was so popular during the 2010 winter season and again at the January dance.

For a mere $5, you can dance, hum along, chat with friends old and new, and enjoy light snacks and soft drinks. You are welcome to bring your own snacks as well, and even adult beverages if you choose.

Grab your dancing shoes and your dance partner and join the fun. More information is available by calling 251-981-3440. And mark your calendar to do it all again on March 11, thanks to Orange Beach Parks and Recreation!

Friday night, January 14, 2011, brings an evening of music and socialization to Orange Beach. The Adult Activity Center will become a dance hall between 6 and 9 p.m., with the help of Chi-Lou (formerly Vintage Vagabonds Band).

Join in an evening of social dancing Friday, January 14, 2011 at Orange Beach Adult Activity Center.

If you attended the dances here last year, yes it’s the same band. They decided a change of name gave them a little more flexibility, but they will play the same great music that was so popular during the 2010 winter season.

For a mere $5, you can dance, hum along, chat with friends old and new, and enjoy light snacks and soft drinks. You are welcome to bring your own snacks as well, and even adult beverages if you choose.

Grab your dancing shoes and your dance partner and join the fun. More information is available by calling 251-981-3440. And mark your calendar to do it all again on February 11 and March 11, thanks to Orange Beach Parks and Recreation!